Symptoms of depression

Symptoms of depression

Depression is more common than you might think, however, it is also often misdiagnosed when people feel down or are going through a tough period in their lives.

Many people do not experience them all but if you have a few of these it might be worth seeking some help. Depression does not always mean treatment through medication. Often, other therapies can also help, such as psychotherapy, CBT or hypnotherapy.

Here is a list of common depression symptoms.

Low mood almost all day, every day

Loss of interest or enjoyment in activities you normally like

Feeling weepy, bursting into tears uncontrollably

Feeling guilty, worthless or useless a lot of the time

Lack of motivation, even for the simple things in life

Lack of concentration, even to watch tv, read or work

Lack of sleep or waking up early and unable to get back to sleep

Lack of energy, always tired

Going off sex and affection

Poor appetite resulting in weight loss

Too much appetite resulting in weight gain

Often irritable, restless and agitated

Symptoms are generally worse in the mornings

Physical symptoms such as more frequent headaches, chest pain or general aches

Preoccupation with death or suicide, thinking about it a lot

The more of these symptoms you are experiencing, the more likely it is that you are suffering from depression and should see a GP.

Whilst your GP is a good first step. You will likely find that your GPs main recourse is to prescribe medication and/or refer you to a counsellor.

They often have very little hands-on training in mental health issues due to the nature of their training and role.

Medication may be what you require, however, it’s important to seek advice from a counsellor as soon as possible to help you with the underlying cause of what you are currently experiencing.

You should not feel awkward or ashamed to speak with your GP. We can assure you it will not be the first time they have had a patient approach them with symptoms of depression, and you are far from alone in experiencing these feelings. More than 300 million people of all ages worldwide currently suffer from depression.

If you do not wish to approach your GP in the first instance. Reach out to us, or someone you trust as soon as possible to start on the path to recovery.